The hip-hop community is mourning the sudden loss of Grammy-nominated producer Tay Keith, who has reportedly passed away at the age of 29. Known for creating some of the biggest rap records of the last decade, the Memphis-born hitmaker leaves behind a major legacy despite his young age.
Tay Keith, born Brytavious Chambers, was found dead in his Nashville apartment during a police welfare check. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected, though an official cause of death has not yet been confirmed and remains pending further investigation.
Keith rose to national prominence through his work with BlocBoy JB, especially the breakout hit “Look Alive” featuring Drake. From there, his production style quickly became one of the most recognizable sounds in modern rap, marked by hard-hitting drums, dark melodies, and a Memphis-rooted energy that translated across the mainstream.
His career reached another level in 2018 when he contributed to massive records like Drake’s “Nonstop” and Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode.” The latter became a chart-topping hit and earned Keith a Grammy nomination, helping cement him as one of the most in-demand producers of his generation.
Over the years, Tay Keith worked with a wide range of artists, including Beyoncé, Eminem, Future, 21 Savage, Lil Nas X, Megan Thee Stallion, Sexyy Red, Cardi B, and more. His production credits reflected both his versatility and his ability to stay connected to the sound of hip-hop as it evolved.
Following news of his passing, fans and collaborators shared tributes across social media. BlocBoy JB, one of Keith’s closest collaborators, expressed heartbreak over the loss, while other artists and producers also honored his influence and impact.
Beyond the hits, Tay Keith represented Memphis on a global stage. He helped bring the city’s sound into mainstream rap while building a career defined by consistency, creativity, and cultural influence. His death marks a major loss for hip-hop, but his music and production legacy will continue to live on through the records he helped create.